An integrated police, government and law enforcement operation have led to the arrest of nine suspected poachers near Robben Island earlier this week.

Police confirmed that the arrests were made on Tuesday morning in a joint effort involving the SAPS Drone Unit, SAPS Divers, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), and other law enforcement agencies.

Authorities said the operation faced difficult conditions, prompting the deployment of a drone from one of the vessels to assist divers. Working together, the drone and diving teams were able to track the suspects, recover poaching equipment, and bring the suspects into custody.

The nine men, aged between 20 and 35, are facing charges under the Maritime Act. They are expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

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Meanwhile, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr. Dion George has welcomed the swift and coordinated efforts of enforcement officials which resulted in the disruption of a large-scale illegal abalone poaching operation at Robben Island.

“Criminal syndicates must know that South Africans do not tolerate lawlessness and the misuse of our natural assets – those who exploit our natural resources will face the full consequences of the law,” said Minister George.

The minister added that these arrests, and other recent ones, are indicative of the department’s ongoing conservation efforts supported by stronger, tactical law enforcement.

Minister George has called on the public to join hands in the fight against illegal activity by reporting any suspicious activities to the relevant DFFE authorities on 086 111 2468 or any other law enforcement authority.